United Kingdom: Announced review of regulation of video-on-demand services introducing content-related regulation

On 23 June 2021, the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport announced a review of the regulation of video-on-demand services. In particular, the Government will consider tightening regulation of video-on-demand services so they are subject to similar rules as traditional TV broadcasters. A white paper due in Autumn will consider whether new rules are needed to protect viewers (especially children) of video-on-demand services, such as changes to age ratings and impartiality and accuracy rules for documentaries and news content. The government will also legislate to strengthen public service broadcasters’ prominence online.